ELISABETH BERGNER.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue 153, 30 June 1937, Page 12

ELISABETH BERGNER.

COMING TO EMBASSY.

An almost exact transcription into English of a picture which was a big success when originally made in German, "Dreaming Lips," starring Elisabeth Bergner, is au interesting experiment in motion picture production. It will open at the Embassy Theatre to-morrow. Mi6s Bergner is said to duplicate almost every gesture of her first performance in settings of the greatest possible similarity. There is an entirely new supporting cast, however, and it is probably a better one than that in the original picture in which Miss Bergner soared to the heights of screen stardom. Just as Garbo is recognised by many competent judges as the finest dramatic actress in America, this German star is considered by many qualified to give an opinion as the greatest dramatic actress in Europe. The story of "Dreaming Lips" is a tragic one. Mere relation of it can give little idea of the intense human interest which the star imparts to it. With exquisite artistry she plays the role of Gaby, girl-wife of an orchestra leader. She falls in love at sight with a famous violinist, a friend of her husband. Th-;y become lovers and decide to tell the truth. Miss Bergner's husband becomes dangerously ill and from that point the story moves on to a stirring climax. The star is the whole picture. She portrays with remarkable fidelity and depth of feeling the study of her tragic personality. Whimsical, loving and fascinating in facial expression, voice and gesture, she will appeal tremendously to an audience which can appreciate the subtle .nuances of great acting. Those who saw her in "Escape Me Never" will recall the power of her acting. In this film she is 6aid to give as fine a performance as she gave in that picture. In the role of the husband. Romney Brent reveals acting ability of a high standard, while Raymond Massev, as the lover, gives excellent support. Also in the cast are Joyce Bland, Sydney Fairbrother and Felix Aylmer. The husband of Elisabeth Bergner in real life, Paul Czinner, directed the film. He ranks with Alexander Korda as one of the best film directors in British pictures. An interesting incident which shows a little known side of Miss Bergner's nature occurred during the filming of the picture. Marlene Dietrich happened to be on the set when a difficult scene was being rehearsed. The two actresses covertly went over the scene together, and then when all was ready Miss- Dietrich went through the part before the camera. When the scene was finished the "deception" caused no little surprise.